Q: How much snow is too much snow on a roof?

• <div><p>Generally, snow removal from a roof should occur once <b>over six inches of snow</b> accumulates, especially if you notice that ice dams have formed. Without <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/7-questions-ask-hiring-ice-dam-removal-company.htm">ice dams</a>, you can let the snow accumulation hit 12 inches before removing it. However, the amount of snow that is too much for your roof also depends on the sturdiness of your roof and the compactness of the snow. If your roof needs maintenance or has structural issues, it&rsquo;s best not to let the snow accumulate too much for fear of collapsing.</p></div>

Question 1

Is an annual snow removal contract worth it?

Accepted Answer

•

Whether or not an annual snow removal contract is worth it depends mainly on location. If you live in an area with frequent heavy snowfall, a yearly contract could be better than paying per clearing. If you live in an area where it only snows a few times a year, paying per snowstorm may be a better option.

Question 2

Can I use a snow blower on a deck or patio?

Accepted Answer

•

Yes, but it works best with lightweight snowblowers, the single-stage models or electric versions. Also, you need to have a rubberized intake edge on the ground and preferably rubberized auger paddles, not a metal version. Otherwise you may chip or damage the surface as you work. When it doubt, let the snow lie.

You can also use a snow blower on leveled gravel, but only if you carefully adjust the intake height so it doesn’t kick up the gravel and turn it into flying missiles.

Question 3

Can I use hot water to melt my driveway?

Accepted Answer

•

You can use hot water to melt ice from your driveway, but there are some serious caveats. Very hot water can quickly melt ice and remove it, which is helpful if you’re very short on time and need a solution ASAP. However, it will only work across a small area, after which there’s a chance the water will freeze again. The sudden clash of temperatures is dangerous for fragile materials, notably windows and other glass, so you’ll want to keep the water away from your car.

Question 4

How much does it cost to remove an ice dam?

Accepted Answer

•

Ice dam removal costs anywhere from $650 to $2,000, with most people paying about $1,200 for this service. The price you pay will depend on a few factors, including the removal method. If your pro uses salt or tablets to get rid of the ice dams, you might only pay $200 to $300. But if they use steam, your costs could increase to $800 to $1,200.

Question 5

How much snow is too much snow on a roof?

Accepted Answer

•

Generally, snow removal from a roof should occur once over six inches of snow accumulates, especially if you notice that ice dams have formed. Without ice dams, you can let the snow accumulation hit 12 inches before removing it. However, the amount of snow that is too much for your roof also depends on the sturdiness of your roof and the compactness of the snow. If your roof needs maintenance or has structural issues, it’s best not to let the snow accumulate too much for fear of collapsing.